The East Texas Fair Rodeo is only two years old, and it already has a statewide award and a day named in its honor.
At its Nov. 10, 2026, meeting, the Smith County Commissioners Court declared that day East Texas Fair Rodeo Day in Smith County. The proclamation honors the rodeo for winning the New Rodeo of the Year award.
Recognized at the Texas Circuit Finals
The East Texas Fair Rodeo received the award at the Texas Circuit Finals in Waco. The award recognizes how well the event has done as Smith County’s first professional rodeo.
Organizers say they plan to keep building a great rodeo experience for East Texas families and fans.
Bigger Crowds in Year Two
This year’s rodeo ran Sept. 25 to 27 and featured bull riding, barrel racing, team roping and other classic events.
More than 8,000 fans came out over the three days, about 5% more than the rodeo’s first year in 2025. For a new event, that kind of steady growth is a good sign that East Texans have embraced it.
A Proud Moment for Smith County
Within two years, the East Texas Fair Rodeo has become a local tradition and a statewide award winner. The county’s proclamation recognizes the work organizers put into bringing professional rodeo to Smith County, and the community support that has helped it grow.
The Bottom Line
The Smith County Commissioners Court named Nov. 10, 2026, East Texas Fair Rodeo Day after the young rodeo won New Rodeo of the Year at the Texas Circuit Finals in Waco. With more than 8,000 fans this year and attendance still climbing, the county’s first professional rodeo looks set to keep growing.